government
Rising healthcare costs are straining Texas businesses as the Legislature seeks solutions
By Texas Tribune, Paul Cobler at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate)
· July 6, 2026
· 11 min read
The expenses to operate three restaurants in Waco are rising across the board, but there’s one growing cost in particular that feels nearly impossible to manage — providing employee health insurance, co-owner Kyle Citrano said. “Every year, it can change on you in a heartbeat,” said Citrano, whos...
Key takeaway “Every year, it can change on you in a heartbeat,” said Citrano, whose family runs George’s, George’s #2 and Jorge’s Cantina.
Why this matters in The San Antonio
San Antonio businesses, particularly those in the service industry, are likely facing similar challenges as Kyle Citrano's restaurants in Waco, with rising health insurance costs straining their operations. The city's vibrant downtown area and thriving food scene rely on small businesses and restaurants, which often have narrow profit margins and limited ability to absorb increased expenses. As the Texas Legislature seeks solutions to mitigate these costs, San Antonio's business community will be watching closely, hoping for relief that can help them maintain employee benefits without sacrificing profitability. The impact of rising health insurance costs is not limited to businesses, but also affects employees who may see their premiums and deductibles increase, making it harder for them to afford healthcare. With a significant portion of San Antonians relying on employer-sponsored health insurance, the Legislature's efforts to address this issue will have a direct impact on the city's workforce and economy.
About this story
Original reporting by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . The San Antonio surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: government ·
Published: July 6, 2026 ·
Source: KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 11 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? The expenses to operate three restaurants in Waco are rising across the board, but there’s one growing cost in particular that feels nearly impossible to manage — providing employee health insurance, co-owner Kyle Citrano said. “Every year, it can change on you in a heartbeat,” said Citrano, whos...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 6, 2026 by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) and curated for The San Antonio readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Texas Tribune, Paul Cobler at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate). To learn more about how The San Antonio selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more government coverage from The San Antonio, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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